In the vibrant, multi-ethnic, and politically diverse society that is Nigeria, the role of the youth in governance has gained increasing importance. Across the country, young people make up a significant portion of the population, and as such, their inclusion in decision-making processes has become a vital factor in shaping the future of the nation. Nigerian democracy, though still in its relatively young stages, thrives on the active participation of its youth in politics and governance. From the political parties to community governance, youths in Nigeria hold leadership roles that shape the direction of their communities. The recent developments in Igbuzo, a community in the Delta State, provide a powerful lens through which to examine the significance of youth leadership and the need for their involvement in governance.
In Nigeria, youth leadership plays a prominent role, not only in political parties but also within various community structures. Every political party in the country has a designated youth leader, and communities across Nigeria appoint their own youth representatives. This youth-centric governance structure has its roots in tradition and continues to be an essential part of Nigeria’s democracy. In traditional settings, elders provide counsel and guidance but do not interfere in the election of youth leaders, reflecting the belief that young people are capable of managing their own affairs.
The Igbuzo Youths Council election has become a focal point of discussion for the community, drawing attention to the significance of youth governance. Originally scheduled for April 2024, the election was postponed at the request of the Executive Chairman of the local government. At the time, there were several pressing issues to address, including the local government election and youth-related crises in the neighboring Ibusa. Despite this delay, the urgency to conduct the youth election only intensified, as the community was eager to see a new executive emerge. The failure to hold the election in due course raised concerns about the future of the youth council, especially considering the critical role that youth leadership plays in community development.
According to the Ibusa Youths Council Constitution, Section 13, the President of the Youth Council is empowered to form an electoral committee to oversee elections. This constitutional framework gives the youth the autonomy to elect their leaders without interference from traditional authorities or local government officials. However, the prolonged delay in conducting the election sparked public outcry, leading to the formation of an electoral committee tasked with organizing the election for new leaders.
A committee consisting of eleven members, with Barrister E. Charles Nwaogwugwu as Chairman and Amb. Vincent Oliminah as Secretary, was inaugurated. The committee’s responsibility was to ensure that the election process was free and fair. It was clear that the committee had the support of the outgoing leadership and the community, and they took their mandate seriously. As part of the election preparations, the committee paid courtesy visits to key figures in the community, including HRM Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi, the Obuzor of Igbuzo, and the Local Government Chairman, Hon. Innocent Esenwezie. Both the traditional ruler and the local government chairman expressed their support for the electoral process, ensuring that the election would be conducted transparently.
However, just days before the scheduled election, the situation took an unexpected turn. HRM Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi convened a meeting with stakeholders and suggested postponing the election. After the meeting, reports emerged that the local government chairman had boasted that he would personally handpick the next Igbuzo Youths Council President. This raised alarm within the community, especially among the youth, who were concerned that the integrity of the election process might be compromised.
The shock came when a new list of Electoral Committee members was announced by the palace. This new list raised eyebrows because it included individuals who were well above the age bracket designated for youth leaders, and the list even included a Chief Priest of Igbuzo—roles that had no place in youth governance. This abrupt change in the electoral committee’s composition was viewed by many as an attempt to manipulate the election process, casting doubt on the fairness of the upcoming election.
The involvement of the local government chairman and the Igbuzo in the election process has caused significant unrest within the community. It is clear that their intervention threatens the democratic principles of youth leadership and raises questions about the political motivations behind their actions. The community’s response has been swift and strong. Many youths are calling for the immediate withdrawal of the local government chairman and the Igbuzo from the election process, demanding that the originally inaugurated electoral committee proceed with the election without any interference.
In Nigeria, the issue of youth inclusion in governance is more than just a political matter—it is a reflection of the broader societal challenges faced by young people. With a population that is predominantly young, it is crucial that the voices of the youth are heard and respected. Their participation in governance ensures that the concerns of younger generations are adequately addressed. Youths are often at the forefront of social change, and as such, they must be empowered to take leadership positions in their communities. Any attempt to undermine their role in governance only leads to disillusionment and a potential breakdown of the social fabric.
The events in Igbuzo highlight a critical issue that extends beyond the community: the need for a transparent, fair, and inclusive election process that empowers young people to shape their futures. It also underscores the necessity for leadership structures that allow for the proper management of youth affairs without undue interference from political or traditional elites.
Youth inclusiveness in governance is not just a matter of giving young people a seat at the table—it is about ensuring that they have the tools, resources, and autonomy to lead effectively. The way forward in Igbuzo, and across Nigeria, is clear: the youth must be allowed to take the reins of their own leadership and participate fully in the governance processes that shape their communities. Any interference that undermines this principle threatens the stability of the democratic process and undermines the very essence of youth governance.
As Igbuzo prepares for its youth election, the community must work together to ensure that the process is not hijacked by power brokers but remains in the hands of the people it is meant to serve—the youth. Only then can true progress be made, and the future of Nigeria be secured in the capable hands of its young leaders.
Discussion about this post